DE102018203955B4 - VEHICLE DISPLAY DEVICE - Google Patents

Abstract

A vehicle display device (1) comprising: a display unit (2, 3, 4) having a pointer (33, 43), a dial (22, 32, 42) as a background of the pointer, and a frame (21, 31, 41), surrounding the dial, at least one of the pointer and the frame being a physical element; and a virtual image display device (6) displaying a virtual image overlapping with the physical item, the virtual image display device changing at least one color and a design of the virtual image overlapping with the physical item;characterized in thatthe virtual image has a shape that conforms to the shape of the physical element.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a vehicle display device.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Conventionally, a vehicle display device having a physical element such as a frame surrounding a display area is known in the art. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open JP 2006 - 132950 A discloses a technique of a vehicle display device with an annular display partition. In the art of Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open JP 2006 - 132950 A For example, a display design image corresponding to a substantially circular dial displaying measurement values related to a vehicle driving condition is displayed in an LCD display area surrounded by an opening of the ring-shaped display partition.

Out of EP 1 342 605 A1 a display device is known in which an image is superimposed on a certain area of a display via a semi-transparent mirror.

DE 10 2005 029 800 A1 describes a display device with two separate displays in which one or both displays can be displayed to the driver via a semi-transparent mirror.

JP 2009 - 192 434 A describes a display device in which a frame is superimposed on an LCD display via a mirror.

DE 102 97 674 T5 shows a display device for a vehicle with different scales.

In order to improve the design ability of the vehicle display device, there is still room for improvement. For example, if the appearance of the physical element of the vehicle display device can be changed, the designability can be further improved.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the invention is to provide a vehicle display device capable of improving designability.

In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, a vehicle display device according to an aspect of the present invention includes a display unit having a pointer, a dial as a background of the pointer and a frame surrounding the dial, at least one of the pointers, the dial and the frame is a physical element; and a virtual image display device that displays a virtual image that overlaps with the physical item, wherein the virtual image display device changes at least one color and a design of the virtual image that overlaps with the physical item.

According to another aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle display device, it is preferable that an element other than the physical element among the pointer, the dial and the frame is the virtual image displayed by the virtual image display device.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle display device, it is preferable that the display unit has at least one of the dial and the frame as the physical element, and the virtual image display device displays a virtual image thereof on a scale that coincides with the physical Element overlaps with the scale indicated by the pointer.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle display device, it is preferable that the virtual image display device selectively displays the scales of different indexes.

According to still another aspect of the present invention, it is preferable that the vehicle display device further comprises a light source, wherein the frame is the physical element and the light source irradiates the frame.

The above and other objects, features, advantages and technical and industrial significance of this invention will be better understood by reading the following detailed description of presently preferred embodiments of the invention when taken in connection with the accompanying drawings.

character list

• 1 12 is a front view illustrating a vehicle display device according to an embodiment;
• 2 12 is a side view showing the vehicle display device according to the embodiment;
• 3 14 is an enlarged front view showing the vehicle display device according to the embodiment;
• 4 12 is a side view showing an internal configuration of the vehicle display device according to the embodiment;
• 5 14 is another side view showing an internal configuration of the vehicle display device according to the embodiment;
• 6 12 is a perspective view illustrating operations of a movable member according to the embodiment;
• 7 12 is a diagram showing an exemplary display state of the vehicle display device according to the embodiment;
• 8th 12 is a diagram showing a state where a virtual image is overlapped in a first frame according to the embodiment;
• 9 12 is a diagram showing a state in which virtual images overlap overlapping objects according to the embodiment;
• 10 Fig. 14 is a diagram describing a display state depending on a driving mode;
• 11 Fig. 14 is another diagram describing the display state depending on the driving mode;
• 12 Fig. 14 is a diagram describing a display state depending on an environment;
• 13 Fig. 14 is another diagram describing the display state depending on the environment;
• 14 Fig. 14 is yet another diagram describing the display state depending on the environment;
• 15 Fig. 12 is a diagram showing an example display state in which a light source is turned off; and
• 16 FIG. 14 is a diagram showing another exemplary display state in which the light source is turned off.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A vehicle display device according to an embodiment of the invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments are not intended to limit the invention. In addition, the components of the embodiments described below include those that can be easily or substantially similarly conceived by one of ordinary skill in the art.

embodiment

Embodiment of the invention will now be made with reference to the 1 until 16 described. The embodiments relate to a vehicle display device. 1 12 is a front view illustrating a vehicle display device according to an embodiment. 2 14 is a side view showing the vehicle display device according to the embodiment. 3 14 is an enlarged front view showing the vehicle display device according to the embodiment. 4 12 is a side view showing an internal configuration of the vehicle display device according to the embodiment. 5 14 is another side view showing an internal configuration of the vehicle display device according to the embodiment. 6 12 is a perspective view illustrating operations of a movable member according to the embodiment. 7 12 is a diagram showing an example display state of the vehicle display device according to the embodiment. 8th 14 is a diagram showing a state where a virtual image is overlapped in a first frame according to the embodiment. 9 12 is a diagram showing a state where virtual images overlap overlapping objects according to the embodiment.

A vehicle display device 1 according to this embodiment is mounted on a vehicle such as an automobile. As shown in 1 until 4 , the vehicle display device 1 according to this embodiment comprises a housing 100, a display unit 10, a decoration member 5, a virtual image display device 6, an actuator unit 7, a second actuator unit 8 and a light source 9. The housing 100 is a cylindrical member having one end closed. The case 100 is formed of metal, synthetic resin or the like. The case 100 is arranged at a front side with respect to a driver's seat of the vehicle in a front-rear direction of the vehicle. The housing 100 is arranged in an opening of a dial plate, for example. The housing 100 is a trapezoidal member in front view.

The housing 100 has an opening 101 facing a driver's seat. In the description of the vehicle display device 1 a “depth direction X” refers to an axial direction of the case 100. The depth direction X is typically a front-rear direction of the vehicle. In the depth direction X, a “front” refers to a driver's seat side, which is typically a rear of the vehicle. In the depth direction X, a “rear side” refers to a side opposite to the driver's seat, which is typically a head side of the vehicle. The opening 101 is provided in a front surface of the case 100 . In addition, a “height direction Z” refers to a height direction of the case 100 while the case 100 is placed in the vehicle and is typically a vertical direction. A “width direction Y” refers to a direction perpendicular to the depth direction X and the height direction Z, and is typically a vehicle width direction. In the width direction Y, a “left side” refers to the left side when viewed from the driver's seat, and is typically a left side of the vehicle. In the width direction Y, a “right side” refers to the right side when viewed from the driver's seat, and is typically a right side of the vehicle.

The opening 101 has a width-direction length Y longer than a height-direction Z length. The decorative element 5 is arranged in the opening 101 . The decoration member 5 faces the driver's seat in the depth X direction. The decorative member 5 is formed of, for example, metal, synthetic resin, or the like. The decoration element 5 has a first decoration section 51 , a second decoration section 52 and a third decoration section 53 . The three decoration sections 51, 52 and 53 may be integrally formed. The decorative element 5 is supported by the case 100 . The first to third decoration sections 51 to 53 have external shapes corresponding to those of the first to third display units 2 to 4 described below.

The first decoration portion 51 has a circular ring shape. The first decoration portion 51 is arranged at the center of the width direction Y of the opening 101 . In addition, the first decoration portion 51 is arranged in the middle of the height direction Z of the opening 101 . The first decoration portion 51 has a diameter slightly smaller than the width in the height direction Z of the opening 101.

The second decoration portion 52 is arranged on the left side in the width direction Y with respect to the first decoration portion 51 . The second decoration section 52 is arranged on the back of the first decoration section 51 and in the vicinity of the first decoration section 51 . The second decoration part 52 has a U-shape inclined to the right side or a C-shape. An open portion of the second decoration portion 52 faces the first decoration portion 51 . A right end portion of the second decoration portion 52 is hidden behind the first decoration portion 51 .

The third decoration portion 53 is arranged on the right side in the width direction Y with respect to the first decoration portion 51 . The third decoration section 53 is arranged on the back of the first decoration section 51 and in the vicinity of the first decoration section 51 . The third decoration portion 53 has a U-shape inclined to the left or a C-shape inverted in the left-right direction. An open portion of the third decoration portion 53 faces the first decoration portion 51 . A left end portion of the third decoration portion 53 is hidden behind the first decoration part 51 .

The display unit 10 is arranged on the back side in the depth direction X with respect to the decorative member 5 . The display unit 10 according to this embodiment is arranged in a deep side of the interior of the case 100 . The display unit 10 according to this embodiment has a first display unit 2 , a second display unit 3 and a third display unit 4 . The first display unit 2 has a first frame 21 and a first dial 22, as in FIG 3 shown. The first frame 21 and the first dial 22 are formed of synthetic resin or metal, for example. According to this embodiment, the first frame 21 is formed of metal such as aluminum, and the first dial 22 is formed of synthetic resin. The first frame 21 has a light color such as silver or white. When the first frame 21 is formed of resin, plating of a light color can be applied to a surface of the first frame 21 . The surface of the first frame 21 may be subjected to a mirror finish or a frosted finish. The first frame 21 according to this embodiment has an annular shape.

The first dial 22 is a disc-shaped member. The first dial 22 blocks an area inside the first frame 21 from the rear. The first dial 22 has a deep color such as black. The surface of the first dial 22 may be subjected to a matte finish. In the first display unit 2, the first frame 21 and the first dial 22 are physical elements. A first display area DR<b>1 is formed to be surrounded and defined by the ring-shaped first frame 21 .

The second display unit 3 has a second frame 31 , a second dial 32 and a second pointer 33 . The second frame 31 is arranged on the left side in the width direction Y with respect to the first frame 21 . The second frame 31 is arranged in an area surrounded by the first decoration portion 51 and the second decoration portion 52 . The second frame 31 has a U-shape inclined to the right side or a C-shape. An end portion of the opening side of the second frame 31 is hidden behind the left end portion of the first decoration part 51 . The second frame 31 and the first decoration portion 51 form a second display area DR2 that is delimited by the surroundings. The second pointer 33 is arranged in the second display area DR2. In the second display unit 3, the second frame 31, the second dial 32 and the second pointer 33 are physical elements.

The second frame 31, the second dial 32 and the second pointer 33 are formed of synthetic resin or metal, for example. According to this embodiment, the second frame 31 is formed of metal such as aluminum, and the second dial 32 and the second pointer 33 are formed of synthetic resin. The second frame 31 has a light color such as silver or white. When the second frame 31 is formed of resin, a light color plating may be applied to a surface of the second frame 31 . The surface of the second frame 31 may be subjected to a mirror finish or a frosted finish. The second dial 32 has a shape corresponding to the shape of the second frame 31 . The second dial 32 covers the area surrounded by the second frame 31 from the back of the second frame 31 . The second dial 32 has a deep color such as black. The surface of the second dial 32 may be subjected to a matte finish. The second pointer 33 has a light color such as silver or white. The second pointer 33 can be at least partially transparent.

The third display unit 4 has a third frame 41 , a third dial 42 and a third pointer 43 . The third frame 41 is arranged on the right side in the width direction Y with respect to the first frame 21 . The third frame 41 is arranged in an area surrounded by the first decoration portion 51 and the third decoration portion 53 . The third frame 41 has a U-shape inclined to the left or a C-shape inverted in the left-right direction. An opening side end portion of the third frame 41 is hidden behind a right end portion of the first decoration portion 51 . The third frame 41 and the first decoration portion 51 form a third display area DR3 that is delimited by the surroundings. The third pointer 43 is arranged in the third display area DR3. In the third display unit 4, the third frame 41, the third dial 42 and the third pointer 43 are physical elements.

The third frame 41, the third dial 42 and the third pointer 43 are formed of synthetic resin or metal, for example. According to this embodiment, the third frame 41 is formed of metal such as aluminum, and the third dial 42 and the third pointer 43 are formed of synthetic resin. The third frame 41 has a light color such as silver or white. When the third frame 41 is formed of resin, a surface of the third frame 41 may be subjected to plating of a light color. The surface of the third frame 41 may be subjected to a mirror finish or a frosted finish. The third dial 42 has a shape corresponding to the shape of the third frame 41 . The third dial 42 covers the area surrounded by the third frame 41 from the back of the third frame 41 . The third dial 42 has a deep color such as black. The surface of the third dial 42 may be subjected to a matte finish. The third pointer 43 has a light color such as silver or white. The third pointer 43 can be at least partially transparent.

As in 4 As shown, the virtual image display device 6 includes a display device 61 , a half mirror 62 , and a display control unit 63 . The half mirror 62 is a semi-transparent element. The half mirror 62 reflects part of an incident light and transmits the other part of the incident light. The half mirror 62 has a main body made of transparent resin or glass and a half mirror layer. The half mirror layer is a metal or inorganic multilayer film formed on a surface of the main body by deposition or the like. The half mirror 62 is arranged between the decoration member 5 and the display unit 10 in the depth X direction. The half mirror 62 inclines toward the rear in the depth X direction as it goes up in the height Z direction. The half mirror 62 is held by the housing 100 in the tilted position described above.

The display device 61 projects an image toward the half mirror 62. The display device 61 is controlled by the display control unit 63. FIG. The display device 61 is a liquid crystal display device such as a thin film transistor liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD). the The display device 61 is arranged above the half mirror 62 in the Z height direction. In addition, the display device 61 faces the half mirror 62 in the Z height direction. The image projected from the display device 61 is reflected by the half mirror 62 to the front surface side in the depth direction X as indicated by the arrow A1. The image reflected on the half mirror 62 is recognized as a virtual image focused on the back of the half mirror 62 as viewed by a driver seated on the driver's seat. The position where the virtual image is formed is placed in the front surface of the display unit 10 or slightly in the front or the back of the front surface of the display unit 10, for example.

In the vehicle display device 1 according to this embodiment, the first frame 21 and the first dial 22 are movable. In the following description, the first frame 21 and the first dial 22 are collectively referred to as “movable member 20”. The vehicle display device 1 has an actuator unit 7 and a second actuator unit 8 for moving the movable member 20 . The movable element 20 can be in an upright position of 4 be arranged and a tilted position of 5 be. The movable member 20 can stop at a position between the upright and reclined positions. The upright position is a position where the movable member 20 faces a driver on the driver's seat. When the movable member 20 is in the upright position, an inclination angle θ of the axial direction X1 of the movable member 20 against the depth direction X is minimized. The movable member 20 placed in the upright position is inclined so that an upper end portion 20a is located slightly behind a lower end portion 20b. The tilt position of 5 is a position where the movable member 20 faces the display device 61 . When the movable member 20 is in the tilt position, the inclination angle θ of the axial direction X1 of the movable member 20 against the depth direction X is maximized.

The actuator unit 7 has an energy source 71 , an energy transmission mechanism 72 , an actuator controller 73 and a conversion element 74 . The actuator unit 7 is arranged in the rear of the movable element 20 . The power source 71 is a rotary motor, for example. The power transmission mechanism 72 rotates a shaft member 75 by a rotational force output from the power source 71 . By the rotation of the shaft member 75, the conversion member 74 reciprocates along the axial direction of the shaft member 75. The shaft member 75 is a columnar member extending along the Z-height direction. The shaft member 75 is inclined such that an upper end portion is located slightly behind a lower end portion. The angle of inclination of the shaft member 75 corresponds to the angle of inclination of the movable member 20 located in the upright position. A spiral thread 75 a is formed on an outer peripheral surface of the shaft member 75 . The conversion member 74 has a nut-like rotatable member engaged with the thread 75a. This rotatable member converts rotary motion of the shaft member 75 into linear motion along the axial direction of the shaft member 75 . The conversion member 74 moves in the height direction Z along the shaft member 75 when the shaft member 75 rotates about the axial line.

The conversion element 74 is connected to the movable element 20 via a holding element 76 . The support member 76 is connected to the rear of the movable member 20 and moves in the height direction Z together with the movable member 20. The converting member 74 and the upper end portion of the support member 76 are connected to each other via a rotary shaft 76a. A central axial line of the rotary shaft 76a is directed in the Y width direction. The holding member 76 is rotatable about the rotating shaft 76a.

A guide portion 76b is provided in the lower end of the holding member 76. As shown in FIG. The guided portion 76 b is provided on both sides in the width direction Y of the holding member 76 . The guided portion 76b according to this embodiment is a rotating body such as a wheel or the like, which is rotatably supported. A guide member 11 for guiding the guided portion 76b is disposed inside the case 100. As shown in FIG. The guide element 11 has a guide rail 11a. The guide portion 76b is inserted into the guide rail 11a and rolls along the guide rail 11a. The guide rail 11a extends along the depth direction X as a whole. An arcuate portion 11b is provided at the rear end of the guide rail 11a. The arcuate portion 11b is curved so as to incline upward in the height-Z direction toward the rear of the depth-X direction.

The operation controller 73 controls a magnitude and a rotating direction of the rotational force output from the power source 71 . As in 4 As shown, when the movable member 20 is located in the upright position, the guide portion 76b is located in the rear end of the guide rail 11a. In this In this case, the conversion element 74 is positioned in the upper end of the shaft element 75 . When the movable member 20 moves from the upright position to the inclined position, the operation controller 73 controls the power source 71 so that the converting member 74 moves downward. Specifically, the actuator controller 73 rotates the shaft member 75 by the power source 71 in a rotating direction in which the conversion member 74 moves downward.

When the conversion member 74 moves down along the shaft member 75, the guided portion 76b is guided by the guide rail 11a and moves toward the front. When the converting member 74 moves downward, the lower end portion 20b of the movable member 20 relatively moves away from the shaft member 75 toward the front. As a result, the inclination angle of the movable member 20 with respect to the height direction Z increases. The actuator controller 73 stops outputting the power source 71 when the movable member 20 reaches the tilt position.

When the movable member 20 moves from the tilted position to the upright position, the actuator controller 73 controls the power source 71 to move the converting member 74 upward. More specifically, the actuator controller 73 rotates the shaft member 75 by the power source 71 in a rotating direction in which the conversion member 74 moves upward. When the conversion member 74 moves up along the shaft member 75, the guide portion 76b is guided by the guide rail 11a and moves toward the rear. When the conversion member 74 moves upward, the lower end portion 20b of the movable member 20 moves relative to the rear to approach the shaft member 75. As shown in FIG. As a result, the inclination angle of the movable member 20 with respect to the height direction Z decreases. When the movable element 20 reaches the upright position, the actuator controller 73 stops the output of the energy source 71.

The vehicle display device 1 according to this embodiment further includes the second actuator unit 8 for moving the movable member 20 in the width direction Y. As shown in FIG. The second actuator unit 8 is arranged in the holding element 76 . The second actuator unit 8 includes a second power source such as a motor and a second power transmission mechanism. The second power transmission mechanism converts a rotary motion caused by the output of the second power source into a linear motion along the width direction Y. The second actuator unit 8 is arranged between the holding element 76 and the movable element 20 . The second actuator unit 8 causes the movable member 20 to relatively move in the width direction Y with respect to the holding member 76 .

As in 4 As shown, the light source 9 is arranged in an upper part of the interior of the housing 100 in the Z height direction. The light source 9 is arranged above the display unit 10 in the Z height direction. That is, the light source 9 irradiates the physical elements of the display unit 10 with light from above. In the vehicle display device 1 according to this embodiment, at least one light source 9 is provided in each of the first display unit 2 , the second display unit 3 and the third display unit 4 . The light source 9 corresponding to the first display unit 2 irradiates the first frame 21 and the first dial 22 with light. The light source 9 corresponding to the second display unit 3 irradiates the second frame 31, the second dial 32 and the second pointer 33 with light. The light source 9 corresponding to the third display unit 4 irradiates the third frame 41, the third dial 42 and the third pointer 43 with light.

7 12 illustrates an exemplary display state of the vehicle display device 1. A first pointer image 23a, an index image 24, and an information image 25a are displayed in the first display area DR<b>1 surrounded by the first frame 21 . The first pointer image 23a, the index image 24, and the information image 25a are virtual images displayed by the virtual image display device 6. FIG. The index image 24 includes a scale image 24a and a character image 24b. The index image 24 is displayed along an inner peripheral surface of the first frame 21 . Index picture 24 of 7 14 is an index picture for showing a vehicle speed, which is a running speed of the vehicle.

The first pointer image 23a displays the index image 24 . Specifically, the first pointer image 23a is displayed at a position indicating one scale image 24a corresponding to a current vehicle speed among a plurality of scale images 24a. Note that when the first pointer image 23a and the index image 24 are overlapped, a part of the index image 24 overlapping with the first pointer image 23a is not displayed. That is, the display device 61 generates the display image such that the first pointer image 23a is placed in front of the index image 24 in the depth direction X.

The information image 25a is displayed in the center of the first display area DR1. The information image 25a includes a circular frame image and a character image. The character image of Information image 25a includes characters indicating information on an outside air temperature or a travel distance.

Information images 25b and 25c are displayed around the first frame 21. FIG. The information images 25 b and 25 c are virtual images displayed by the virtual image display device 6 . The information image 25b is displayed on the left side of the first frame 21. FIG. The information image 25c is displayed on the right side of the first frame 21. FIG. The information image 25b contains characters that indicate a current driving mode of the vehicle. The information image 25c includes characters indicating a current shift position of the vehicle.

An index picture 34 is displayed in the second display area DR2. The index image 34 is a virtual image displayed by the virtual image display device 6 . The index image 34 includes a scale image 34a and a character image 34b. The index picture 34 is displayed along the side face of the second frame 31 . The index picture 34 of 7 Fig. 12 is an index image for a rotation speed of the engine mounted on the vehicle. The index picture 34 is indicated by a second pointer 33 . Note that the virtual image display device 6 does not display the index image 34 in a portion overlapping with the second pointer 33 . That is, the virtual image display device 6 visualizes the index image 34 as a background of the second pointer 33.

An index picture 44 is displayed in the third display area DR3. The index image 44 is a virtual image displayed by the virtual image display device 6 . The index image 44 includes a scale image 44a and a character image 44b. The index picture 44 is displayed along the side face of the third frame 41 . Index picture 44 of 7 12 is an index image of a remaining fuel amount of the vehicle. The index picture 44 is indicated by a third pointer 43 . Note that the virtual image display device 6 does not display the index image 44 in a portion overlapping with the third pointer 43 . That is, the virtual image display device 6 visualizes the index image 44 as a background of the third pointer 43.

The virtual image display device 6 according to this embodiment displays the virtual image overlapped with the physical elements of the display unit 10 . The virtual image display device 6 leaves the virtual image with objects such as the first frame 21, the first dial 22, the second frame 31, the second dial 32, the second pointer 33, the third frame 41, the third dial 42, and the third Hands 43 overlap. The virtual image display device 6 can display the virtual image overlapped with at least one of these objects (hereinafter simply referred to as “overlapping object”). The virtual image display device 6 according to this embodiment displays the virtual image overlapping with an arbitrary overlapping object. The virtual image display device 6 may overlap the virtual image with all of the overlapping objects or with a part of the overlapping objects. The virtual image display device 6 changes at least either the color or the design of the virtual image overlapped with the overlapping object. Therefore, the vehicle display device 1 according to this embodiment can improve designability by changing at least a color or a design of the physical elements.

Note that the process of changing the color or design of the virtual image includes not only a process of changing the color or design depending on the elapsed time but also a process of displaying a virtual image with a different color or different Design depending on the vehicle's driving mode or environment, as described below.

8th 12 illustrates a state in which a colored virtual image overlapped with the first frame 21 is displayed. A colored frame image 26a is displayed to be overlapped with the first frame 21 . The shape of the frame image 26a corresponds to the shape of the first frame 21. The color of the frame image 26a differs from the original color of the first frame 21, for example. The color of the frame image 26a can also be identical to or similar to that of an information image 25d that is in the first Display area DR1 is displayed.

9 12 illustrates a state in which virtual images having the same color are overlapped with a plurality of overlapping objects. A frame image 26b is a virtual image displayed to be overlapped with the first frame 21 . A frame image 35a is a virtual image displayed overlapping with the second frame 31 . The shape of the frame image 35a corresponds to the shape of the second frame 31. A frame image 45a is a virtual image displayed overlapping with the third frame 41. FIG. The shape of the frame image 45a corresponds to the shape of the third frame 41. The virtual image display device 6 adjusts the colors of the three frame images 26b, 35a and 45a to be identical or similar to each other. In this case, there is a sense of uniformity in appearance between the three display units 2, 3 and 4 generated so that the design ability is improved.

In 9 a pointer image 36a is a virtual image displayed overlapping with the second pointer 33 . A pointer image 46a is a virtual image displayed in an overlapping manner with the third pointer 43 . The virtual image display device 6 adjusts the colors of the two pointer images 36a and 46a to be identical or similar to each other. In this case, a sense of unity in appearance is created between at least two display units 3 and 4, so that designability is improved.

The virtual image display device 6 can adjust the colors of the frame images 26b, 35a and 45a and the colors of the pointer images 36a and 46a to be identical or similar to each other. In this case, a sense of unity between the three display units 2, 3 and 4 is further enhanced. Note that when the first pointer image 23a is displayed in the first display area DR1, the virtual image display device 6 can adjust the color of the first pointer image 23a to be identical or similar to the colors of the pointer images 36a and 46a.

The colors of the frame images 26b, 35a and 45a and the colors of the pointer images 36a and 46a are set to the color corresponding to the running mode of the vehicle, for example. In 9 the information image 25b is displayed, indicating that the current driving mode is an eco mode. When the eco mode is set in the vehicle, the colors of the frame images 26b, 35a and 45a and the colors of the pointer images 36a and 46a are set to the color corresponding to the eco mode. For example, the color of the eco mode is set as a blue series color. A color of the character image 25e indicating the eco mode is the color corresponding to the eco mode.

Information images 25f, 25g and 25h are displayed in the first display area DR1. The information images 25f, 25g, and 25h are virtual images displayed by the virtual image display device 6. FIG. The information image 25f is an indicator showing a load of the vehicle. For example, the color of the information image 25f is identical or similar to the colors of the frame images 26b, 35a and 45a or the like. The information image 25g is a character image displaying information about a travel distance. The information image 25h is a character image displaying a numerical value of the vehicle speed.

The index picture 34 is displayed in the second display area DR2. The index picture 34 of 9 is an index image regarding the vehicle speed. The index picture 34 includes a dial picture 34c and a character picture 34d for the vehicle speed. In this way, dial images 34a and 34c of other indices such as engine speed or vehicle speed are selectively displayed in the second display area DR2. It should be noted that one of the dial images 34a and 34c may also be physically provided in the second dial 32 . For example, the second dial 32 may be provided with the dial image 34a and the character image 34b in advance by printing or the like. When the scale image 34c and the map image 34d are displayed, a virtual image including the scale image 34c and the map image 34d of the vehicle speed is displayed to cover the scale image 34a and the map image 34b of the engine speed.

10 illustrates a display state in which a sport mode is selected. A frame image 26c overlapping the first frame 21, a frame image 35b overlapping the second frame 31, and a frame image 45b overlapping the third frame 41 are displayed in identical or similar color. The colors of the frame images 26c, 35b and 45b are set to the color corresponding to the sports mode. For example, the color of the sport mode is set as a standard red color.

A pointer image 36b overlapping the second pointer 33 and a pointer image 46b overlapping the third pointer 43 are displayed in the identical or similar color. The colors of the pointer images 36b and 46b are set to the color corresponding to the sport mode. The color of a character picture 25j showing the sports mode is set to the color corresponding to the sports mode.

The index image 24 and a first pointer image 23b are displayed in the first display area DR1. Index picture 24 of 10 is an index image for engine speed. The index picture 24 includes a dial picture 24c and a sign picture 24d for the engine speed. As shown in 7 and 10 , scale images 24a and 24c or character images 24b and 24d of different indexes are selectively displayed in the first display area DR1. The first pointer image 23b is displayed at a position indicating the scale image 24c corresponding to the current engine speed among a plurality of scale images 24c. The color of the first pointer image 23b is set to the color corresponding to the sport mode.

As in 10 1, a sample image 27a is further displayed on the first frame 21 in an overlapping manner. A variety of pattern images 27a is displayed along a circumferential direction of the first frame 21 at a predetermined interval. For example, the pattern images 27a are displayed at a position corresponding to the position of the scale image 24c. The pattern image 27a of 10 12 is an image of a line segment displayed on an extended line of the scale image 24c.

11 shows a display state in which the normal mode is selected. In 11 a virtual image overlapping with an overlapping object in the normal mode is displayed. A frame image 26d overlapping the first frame 21, a frame image 35c overlapping the second frame 31, and a frame image 45c overlapping the third frame 41 are displayed in the same or similar color. The colors of the frame images 26d, 35c and 45c are set to the color corresponding to the normal mode. For example, the normal mode color is a blue series color or a green series color.

The index picture 24 and a first pointer picture 23c are displayed in the first display area DR1. Index picture 24 of 11 is an index image for the vehicle speed. The index picture 24 includes a dial picture 24e and a character picture 24f for the vehicle speed. The color of the first pointer image 23c is set to the color corresponding to the normal mode.

An image corresponding to the surroundings of the vehicle can be displayed on the display unit 10 . 12 illustrates a display example of a fine weather image. The virtual image display device 6 displays a sample image 27b in the first display area DR1. The sample picture 27b is a picture showing a beautiful weather landscape. The virtual image display device 6 displays a specular image 27c overlapped with the first frame 21. FIG. The glossy image 27c is an image imitating a state where the first frame 21 is illuminated with external light such as sunlight. For example, the specular image 27c is displayed in an upper edge of the first frame 21 in the height direction. A part of the specular image 27c is displayed outside the first frame 21 in the radial direction. The virtual image display device 6 can change the position, brightness, or color of the specular image 27c depending on a traveling direction of the vehicle or elapsed time.

13 illustrates a display example of a precipitation image. The virtual image display device 6 displays a sample image 27d in the first display area DR1. The sample image 27d is an image showing a landscape at the time of rain. The pattern image 27d expresses a raindrop. The virtual image display device 6 displays a droplet image 27 e overlapped with the first frame 21 and the first dial 22 . The droplet image 27 e is an image imitating a droplet attached to the surface of the first frame 21 and the first dial 22 . The virtual image display device 6 can display animation simulating a state in which droplets flow down along the surfaces of the first frame 21 and the first dial 22 by changing the positions of the droplet images 27e. 13 FIG. 27 illustrates the droplet image 27e imitating a droplet falling from the first frame 21. FIG. The pattern image 27d or the droplet image 27e is an exemplary virtual image showing a state not directly related to the vehicle state (such as a driving state or a state of a vehicle-mounted device).

14 illustrates a display example of an image after the rain. The virtual image display device 6 displays a sample image 27f in the first display area DR1. The sample image 27f is an image representing a landscape after rain such as a landscape of a sunset. The virtual image display device 6 displays the droplet image 27 e overlapped with the first frame 21 . The droplet image 27e has a size smaller than that of the droplet image 27e at the time of rain as shown in FIG 13 is shown. The virtual image display device 6 can reduce the size of the droplet image 27e depending on the elapsed time. The virtual image display device 6 stops displaying the droplet image 27e when a predetermined time elapses after the rain stops.

In the display unit 10, a light source 9 corresponding to at least one of the three display units 2, 3 and 4 may be turned off. For example puts 15 represents a state in which the light source 9 corresponding to the first display unit 2 is turned off. Since the light source 9 is turned off, the first frame 21 is not easily recognized. The virtual image display device 6 displays a template image 27 g overlapped with the first frame 21 and the first dial 22 . The template image 27g can also be an icon image for selecting a menu, for example.

As in 16 As shown, a navigation image 28 can be displayed in an area surrounded by the first decoration section 51 . The first frame 21 and the first dial 22 are hidden by the navigation image 28 and are not substantially recognized. In 16 a frame image 35d overlapping the second frame 31 and a frame image 45d overlapping the third th frame 41 overlapped are displayed in the identical or similar color. In addition, a pointer image 36c overlapping the second pointer 33 and a pointer image 46c overlapping the third pointer 43 are displayed in the identical or similar color. The colors of the frame images 35d and 45d and the colors of the pointer images 36c and 46c may be identical or similar to each other. In addition, the color of the keynote of the navigation image 28, the colors of the frame images 35d and 45d, and the colors of the pointer images 36c and 46c may be similar to each other.

As described above, the vehicle display device 1 according to this embodiment has the display unit 10 which includes the pointer (such as the first pointer images 23a, 23b and 23c, the second pointer 33 and the third pointer 43), dials 22, 32 and 42, and the frames 21, 31 and 41, and the virtual image display device 6. The dials 22, 32 and 42 are backgrounds of the pointers (such as the first pointer images 23a, 23b and 23c, the second pointer 33 and the third pointer 43). The frames 21, 31 and 41 surround the dials 22, 32 and 42. In each of the display units 2, 3 and 4, at least one of the pointers, the dials and the frame is the physical element. For example, in the first display unit 2, the first frame 21 and the first dial 22 are physical elements. In the second display unit 3, the second frame 31, the second dial 32 and the second pointer 33 are physically existing elements. In the third display unit 4, the third frame 41, the third dial 42 and the third pointer 43 are physically existing elements.

The virtual image display device 6 displays a virtual image overlapped with the physical element of the display unit 10 . The virtual image display device 6 according to this embodiment changes at least either the color or the design of the virtual image displayed overlapping the physical item. In the vehicle display device 1 according to this embodiment, the color or design of the physical element is variously changed by the color or design of the virtual image that is displayed in an overlapping manner in addition to the original color or design of the physical element. Therefore, the vehicle display device 1 according to this embodiment can have the improved design ability.

The vehicle display device 1 according to this embodiment does not necessarily have a complicated structure in the frame 21, 31 or 41. For example, in the vehicle display device described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-32516, the light-emitting unit or LED expressing the scale is provided in an annular member. In the vehicle display device 1 according to this embodiment, the scale can be displayed using a virtual image as shown in FIG 10 be presented, expressed, or similar. Therefore, such a complicated structure is not necessary.

Note that the "background of the pointer" includes a thing that appears as it exists behind the first pointer images 23a, 23b and 23c, in other words, a virtual background or a substantial background, as well as those that are physically behind the pointers are positioned. In addition, when both the pointer and the dial are displayed as virtual images, the dial as “the background of the pointer” includes a case where the image is generated so that the dial is positioned behind the pointer.

The frame surrounding the dial includes a case where the frame surrounds the display area serving as the dial and a case where the frame surrounds the edges of the dial. In the example of the second dial 32, the second dial 32 may be a part of the plate-like part, which part corresponds to the second display area DR2 in which information is displayed. In this case, it can be said that the second frame 31 surrounding the second display area DR2 substantially surrounds the second dial 32 .

In the display unit 10 according to this embodiment, items other than the physical items among the pointers, the dials, and the frames are virtual images displayed by the virtual image display device 6 . For example, in the first display unit 2, the first pointer images 23a, 23b, and 23c are elements other than the physical elements, in other words, virtual elements that do not physically exist but can be recognized. The first pointer images 23a, 23b and 23c are virtual images displayed by the virtual image display device 6. FIG. Therefore, the first pointer images 23a, 23b and 23c can be displayed anywhere with any color or shape. Therefore, the design ability of the vehicle display device 1 is improved. In addition, the first pointer images 23a, 23b and 23c are displayed when necessary, but not displayed when not necessary. Therefore, in the first display area DR1, the pointer can be set in a non-displayed state regardless of the turning on/off of the light source 9.

The display unit 10 according to this embodiment has at least the dial or the frame as the physical element. The virtual image display device 6 displays a virtual image of the scale indicated by the pointer overlapping this physical element. As in 7 or the like, the virtual image display device 6 displays the dial images 24 a , 24 c and 24 e overlapping with the first dial 22 . In addition, the virtual image display device 6 displays the dial images 34 a and 34 c overlapping with the second dial 32 and displays the dial image 44 a overlapping with the third dial 42 . The virtual image display device 6 can display the scale image overlapped with the frame 21, 31, or 41. By displaying the scale using the virtual image, it is possible to freely change a layout or color of the scale. Therefore, it is possible to improve designability using the vehicle display device 1 according to this embodiment.

In the virtual image display device 6 according to this embodiment, dials of different indexes are selectively displayed. For example, the vehicle speed dial 24a or 24e or the engine speed dial 24c is selectively displayed in the first display area DR1. Therefore, multiple display modes with different indices are implemented in a single dial (first dial 22).

The vehicle display device 1 according to this embodiment has the light source 9 which irradiates the frames 21, 31 and 41 as the physical elements. By combining the light of the light source 9 and the virtual image displayed by the virtual image display device 6, the design ability of the vehicle display device 1 is further improved. For example, when the frames 21, 31 and 41 are irradiated with the light from the light source 9, stereoscopic vision in the frames 21, 31 and 41 is improved. The presentation of the stereoscopic vision using the light of the light source 9 and the presentation of the color and design using the virtual image display device 6 improve the designability of the vehicle display device 1.

Modification of the embodiment

Modifications of the embodiments will be described. The shapes of the frames 21, 31 and 41 are not limited to those described above. For example, the shape of the first frame 21 may have a partially indented annular shape such as a C-shape or a U-shape.

The first display unit 2 may be provided with a pointer as a physical element. In the first display unit 2 , the first frame 21 or the first dial 22 may be a virtual image displayed by the virtual image display device 6 . In the second and third display units 3 and 4, each of the frames 31 and 41, dials 32 and 42, and pointers 33 and 43 may be a virtual image displayed by the virtual image display device 6. FIG. For example, in the second display unit 3 , the second dial 32 and the second pointer 33 may be virtual images displayed by the virtual image display device 6 .

The color of the virtual image displayed overlapping the overlapping object may change depending on the engine speed. For example, when the engine speed is high, a red virtual image overlapping with the frame or pointer may be displayed. The color of the virtual image may change in response to a user's manipulation. For example, the colors of frames 21, 31, and 41 can be determined based on a user command.

The first frame 21 and the first dial 22 need not be movable. That is, the first frame 21 and the first dial 22 can be fixed in one position.

Those described in the embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate.

According to the embodiment, there is provided a vehicle display device, comprising: a display unit having a pointer, a dial as a background of the pointer, and a frame surrounding the dial, wherein at least one of the pointer, the dial, and the frame is a physical element; and a virtual image display device that displays a virtual image overlapped with the physical item, wherein the virtual image display device changes a color and/or a design of the virtual image displayed overlapped with the physical item. Using the vehicle display device according to the present embodiment, it is possible to improve the design ability by changing at least a color or a design of the physical element other than the original elements.

Although the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments for the purpose of complete and clear disclosure, the appended claims are not limited thereto but are intended to be len should be construed as incorporating all modifications and alternative constructions which may occur to those skilled in the art and fall within the basic teachings presented herein.

Claims (8)

A vehicle display device (1) comprising: a display unit (2, 3, 4) having a pointer (33, 43), a dial (22, 32, 42) as a background of the pointer, and a frame (21, 31, 41), surrounding the dial, at least one of the pointer and the frame being a physical element; and a virtual image display device (6) that displays a virtual image that overlaps with the physical item, the virtual image display device changing at least one color and a design of the virtual image that overlaps with the physical item; characterized in that the virtual image has a shape that corresponds to the shape of the physical element. Vehicle display device (1) after claim 1 wherein an element other than the physical physical element among the pointer (33, 43), the dial (22, 32, 42) and the frame is the virtual image displayed by the virtual image display device. Vehicle display device (1) after claim 1 , wherein the display unit has at least the dial (22, 32, 42) and/or the frame (21, 31, 41) as the physical element, and the virtual image display device displays a virtual image of a scale overlapping with the physical element, where the scale is indicated by the pointer. Vehicle display device (1) after claim 3 , wherein the virtual image display device selectively displays the scales of different indices. Vehicle display device (1) according to one of Claims 1 until 4 further comprising: a light source, wherein the frame is the physical element, and the light source illuminates the frame. Vehicle display device (1) after claim 1 , where both the pointer and the frame are the physical element, and the virtual image is a pointer image (36a-c, 46a-c) that overlaps the pointer and a frame image (26a-d, 35a-d, 45a-d ) that overlaps the frame. Vehicle display device (1) after claim 6 , wherein a color of the pointer image (36a-c, 46a-c) and a color of the frame image (26a-d, 35a-d, 45a-d) are identical or similar to each other. Vehicle display device (1) after claim 1 wherein the virtual image display device (6) sets a color of the virtual image overlapping with the physical item to a color corresponding to a driving mode.

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